Goa, Aug. 23 -- Devdutt Padikkal continued his sensational run of form as he smashed his second consecutive Test century against Sri Lanka, producing another assured innings to strengthen India's position in the second Test in Colombo.

India won the toss and opted to bat first at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Sunday. While the visitors lost wickets at regular intervals, Padikkal once again stood firm and played a crucial role in building India's first-innings total.

Coming in after the fall of the opening wicket, Padikkal settled into the innings before gradually taking control. The left-hander combined patience with an attacking approach whenever scoring opportunities presented themselves. His innings was particularly significant...